Glossary of Medical Terms

Our online medical glossary of medical terms and definitions includes definitions for terms related to treatment, and general medicine

PANGENESIS

An hypothesis advanced by Darwin in explanation of heredity. The theory rests on the assumption, that the intact organization, in the sense of each separate atom or unit, reproduces itself, the cells throwing off minute granules called gemmules, which circulate freely throughout the system and multiply by subdivision. These gemmules collect in the reproductive organs and commodity, or in buds, so that the egg or bud contains gemmules from all parts of the parent or parents, which in development give rise to cells in the offspring similar to those from which they were given off in the parent. The hypothesis also assumes that these gemmules need not in all cases develop into cells, but may lie dormant, and be transmitted from generation to generation without producing a noticeable effect before a case of atavism occurs. Origin: Pan- + genesis. Source: Websters Vocabulary
mesoblastema   mesoblastemic   mesoblastic   mesoblastic nephroma   mesoblastic segment   mesoblastic sensibility   mesobranchial   mesobronchium   (0)
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